ASL Community Support Specialist - Deaf Program

Thresholds•Chicago, IL

57d•$22 - $26

About The Position

At Thresholds, we believe in meeting people where they're at - in their community, on their journey to recovery, and in their own language. Thresholds was the first in the nation to offer comprehensive and integrated mental health services to people who are deaf or hard of hearing. Community Support Specialists (CSS) within Thresholds' Deaf Program provide mental health and substance use treatment support where it makes the most impact. The Thresholds Deaf Program is the first and only program of its kind in Illinois, offering comprehensive community-based services for persons with serious mental illnesses who are deaf or hard of hearing. Staffed by employees fluent in the use of American Sign Language (ASL) who understand the unique cultural needs of the Deaf community, the Thresholds Deaf Program provides a full range of specialized services. Working as a Community Support Specialist is a unique learning opportunity. Through care planning, you will be an integral part of a client's growth and recovery. You will remove barriers to mental healthcare through case management: connecting our clients with resources and helping them navigate complex systems. You will help clients strengthen daily living skills as you drive them to doctors' appointments, to benefits offices, or to the grocery store. Each day will be a little bit different, requiring you to adapt to your client's schedule, needs, and treatment plan. The culture at Thresholds is collaborative and supportive, providing you with the tools and resources you need for the best client care. Opportunities for training and professional development, including clinical supervision, will deepen your knowledge and expand your clinical skills in harm reduction, trauma-informed care, and other evidence-based practices. This invaluable experience will set you up for a variety of career paths and growth opportunities within our organization.

Requirements

Fluency in American Sign Language (ASL)
Passion for mental health advocacy and Deaf community
Effective communication and relationship-building skills
Good writing skills
Strong time management and organization
To be at least 21 years old
A valid driver's license, current car insurance, and daily access to your own car
Willingness to provide transportation to clients
High school diploma or GED certificate

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Psychology, Social Work, or related field preferred

Benefits

Competitive pay - Base Rate: $21.75- $25.87 per hour / $45,240.00 - $53,800.00 annually
Commensurate with education and experience
Generous PTO (9 federal holidays, 8 days of sick leave, 15-22 days personal and vacation)
Dental insurance, vision insurance,â¯choice of 4 medical insurance plans
403(b) retirement plan with 3% employer match
Robust employee assistance program (EAP)
Mileage reimbursement
Cell phone reimbursement (up to $50/month)
Public service loan forgiveness
Supervision for clinical licensure at no cost (LSW, LCSW, LPC, LCPC)
Reimbursement for professional licensure and license renewal